Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can we offer an Introductory Program on Centering Prayer at our church / home / other venue?
A: Please contact us at cosdc.info@gmail.com. If you are in San Diego County, we would be happy to present an Introductory Program wherever you are located.
Q: How do I join a local Centering Prayer group?
A: Go to our “Prayer Groups” tab and scroll down to see the listing of groups in San Diego and North San Diego. When you find a group that has a meeting time that fits your preferences, contact the facilitator of the group. They can give you information on where/how the group meets (whether online or in person). You may want to “visit” a group a few times at first. COSDC also offers a “Simply Prayer” group that meets on Zoom each Thursday morning just for Centering Prayer and a brief spiritual reading—as well as an Eleventh-Step group that meets on Friday afternoons for those who are in Twelve-Step programs.
Q: How do I subscribe to the Newsletter?
A: Please contact us at cosdc.info@gmail.com with your name and email address. We will add you to our list of subscribers.
Q: How do I make a donation?
A: At some point, we will add a “donation” button to our website. For now, we can accept donations by check at: Contemplative Outreach of San Diego County, PO Box 718, San Marcos, CA 92079. NOTE: COSDC is an unincorporated non-profit association run by volunteers, but we are not a 501c3 organization. Therefore donations to COSDC are not tax-deductible. We suggest that gifts over $250 that you would like to claim as tax-deductible be made directly to the national organization, Contemplative Outreach, Ltd, HERE.
Q: Is Centering Prayer a Catholic practice?
A: While Centering Prayer was developed by Catholic Trappist monks in the 1970s, anyone can practice it, regardless of their denomination or religious background. Centering prayer is rooted in intention and consent to God (or Creator / Higher Power) rather than specific theological concepts. Catholics, Protestants, Orthodox, interspiritual, and spiritual-but-not-religious people practice Centering Prayer. For more on Centering Prayer as a “borderless practice,” click HERE.
Q: Is Centering Prayer a New Age practice?
A: No. Centering Prayer is a contemplative Christian meditation method designed to foster a deeper, wordless relationship with God. While some critics draw superficial parallels between its silent nature and certain New Age practices, Centering Prayer is firmly grounded in Christian history and scripture. For more on the history of Centering Prayer, click HERE.
